From all over America, people are moving to Austin, Texas in droves, and it’s no surprise why! Texas’ state capital has exploded in popularity in recent years, and that has much to do with its high quality of life, booming economy, and overall laidback Austin lifestyle. On top of that, Austin is a very fun city! It has a great nightlife, amazing food scene, eclectic live-music scene, many parks and lakes for nature lovers, and tons of festivals and events throughout the year. I only got to experience this city for a short few days, yet I was already ready to call this city “home”. If you haven’t gotten a chance to visit Austin, Texas, then you’re surely missing out. Check out the best things to do in Austin, Texas!
1. Watch the sunset from the Pennybacker Bridge
The Pennybacker Bridge, also known as the 360 Bridge, offers a beautiful view of Lake Austin. It is a great spot to watch the sunset and one of the best things to do in Austin, Texas. To get to the viewpoint, you do need to take a short hike (less than 10 minutes) so wear comfortable shoes. Parking is available on the west side of the road immediately north of the bridge, where the trailhead starts. Be sure to get here early if you’re visiting on a weekend as the parking space is limited.
2. Hike or bike the Lady Bird Trail and Boardwalk
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is a 10-mile scenic trail that takes you through lush green parks, peaceful lakes, diverse neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. Walking or biking this trail is great way to explore the heart of the Texas capital. Plus, it is easily accessible from most parts of the city. This lakeside trail is a gem and offers great views of Austin.
3. Try delicious barbecue
You can’t visit Austin and not try the famous barbecue. Texans are proud of their barbecue, and there is a range of how different establishments prepare their smoked meats. The hard part is figuring out which is the best barbecue in Austin. Here are some local recommendations:
- Stiles Switch BBQ
- Black’s BBQ
- Franklin BBQ
- Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que
- Terry Black’s BBQ
- La Barbecue
- Kerlin BBQ
4. Have a photoshoot in front of colorful murals
One of the best things to do in Austin is having a fun photoshoot in front of the colorful murals. Austin is home to numerous unique murals that paint the streets in all different colors. Grab your camera, strike a pose, and snap those shots!
5. Check out the Austin Central Library
I know going to a public library while on vacation might sound strange, but trust me on this – you have to check out this library! The Austin Central Library is the library of dreams. It is a 6-story glass building with a rooftop garden and reading area. I spent a few hours reading on the rooftop while admiring sweeping views of the city.
6. Swim at the Hamilton Pool Reserve
Taking a swim at this natural water hole is the perfect way to spend a hot summer’s day. Surrounded by a grotto, the Hamilton Pool Reserve is a stunningly blue pool in a canyon below a scenic 50-ft waterfall. Be sure to make a reservation online in advance as reservations are required.
7. Take a free guided tour of the Texas State Capitol
Did you know that the Texas Capitol Building is the largest state capitol in the United States? The building is actually 14 ft taller than the U.S. Capitol Building! The massive building features ornate detailing and sits on 22 acres of beautiful grounds in the heart of downtown Austin. Plus, free 30-minute tours are offered which are a great way to learn about the history of the building, walk around historic halls, and snap photos. Tours run from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays, departing every 30 to 45 minutes. Tours run from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM on Saturday and noon to 3:30 PM on Sundays.
8. Watch bats take flight from Congress Avenue Bridge
Head to Congress Avenue Bridge to watch bats take flight! From March to October, over a million bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge nightly around sunset. It can take as long as 45 minutes for all the bats to emerge from the many crevices. Make sure to find a good viewing spot early as the areas around the bridge are typically packed.
9. Cool off at Barton Springs Pool
Located in Austin’s Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool is a natural limestone pool with unbelievably clear and clean water that is fed by several underground springs. This oasis offers much comfort from the Texas heat. Take a swim, go for a walk around the park, pack a picnic, or just enjoy the warm weather and sunny skies.
10. Shop at the Domain
The Domain features over 100 shops and restaurants and is the premier destination for a fun shopping experience in Austin. It’s a great place to walk around, eat great food, enjoy a lively atmosphere, and, of course, shop! Retailers include high-end shops such as Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., AllSaints, and Neiman Marcus, as well as more traditional brands like American Eagle Outfitters, Banana Republic, Express and more. Restaurants include favorites like True Food Kitchen, Kona Grill, Grand Lux Cafe, Maggiano’s, North Italia, and more!
11. Admire artwork at the Blanton Museum of Art
The Blanton Museum of Art is an art museum located on the University of Texas’ campus and one of the largest university art collections. This art museum offers a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits. The collection includes European Art, Modern and Contemporary Art, and Latin America Art. The most popular piece of art is Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin, which is a stand-alone building that features a play on light and color.
12. Take a tour of the LBJ Presidential Library
Also located at the University of Austin’s campus, the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum is the presidential library and museum of the 36th President of the United States. It is one of fourteen presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Stop by to learn about LBJ’s legacy and his programs and policy such as the Great Society. The exhibits are informative and interesting with a balanced portrayal of his presidency, both the good and the bad. The LBJ Library is definitely worth visiting, especially if you’re a history bluff!
13. Dine at the Oasis
Offering spectacular views, the Oasis serves mouthwatering Tex-Mex such as fizzling fajitas and delicious tacos. Plus, the outdoors seating provides a panoramic overlook of Lake Travis. You are guaranteed an unforgettable sunset surrounded by delicious food and drinks. Please do note that the restaurant does not take any reservations, and it is recommended to arrive an hour to an hour and a half before sunset. Fun fact: it is the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas!
14. Explore South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue offers a stretch of delicious restaurants, bustling cafes, and unique shops, and it was one of my favorite neighborhoods in Austin. I loved grabbing a latte at Jo’s Coffee (which features the I Love You So Much mural) and sitting outside to people-watch. Some restaurant highlights include Perla’s (seafood), Home Slice (pizza), Hopdoddy Burger Bar (American), South Congress Cafe (American), and Magnolia’s (breakfast and brunch).
15. Experience the nightlife on 6th Street
Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention 6th Street. Going out on the world famous 6th Street is one of the best things to do in Austin, Texas! This street is lined with themed bars, rooftop patios, live music, cool lounges, busy clubs, bustling restaurants, and a variety of other entertainment. 6th Street is the most iconic spot in Austin, and you’ll be sure to experience the distinctive Austin character and vibrance with a night out on the town. Here are some highlights of 6th Street:
Dining
- Chez Nous: An authentic and well-loved French restaurant offering classic bistro fare
- Iron Cactus: Mexican establishment featuring a margarita bar and over 75 varieties of tequila
- Casino El Camino: No-frills 6th street staple serving HUGE burgers and home to a renowned jukebox!
- Parkside: Great spot for happy hour; you can enjoy half-off drinks and bar food from 5 – 6 PM from Tuesdays through Saturdays
- Easy Tiger: German-inspired beer garden…*wait for it* with a bakeshop that makes specialty bread, pretzels, and other baked goods!
Nightlife
- Driskill Hotel & Bar: Iconic and classy hotel with bar that serves a mean Old Fashion
- Midnight Cowboy: A modern day speakeasy that is reservation-only; be sure to plan ahead to visit this unique and exclusive bar
- Firehouse Lounge & Hostel: Imagine partying it up in the oldest fire station in Austin! Built in 1885, this converted fire station now doubles as a speakeasy. The Firehouse Lounge is accessible through a hidden bookshelf in the hostel’s lobby!
- Maggie Mae’s: Featuring live music 7 days a week, this music venue and bar also has one of the best rooftop patios on 6th street
- Buffalo Billiards: Wild West themed bar with pool tables, shuffleboard tables, darts, and other types of entertainment that will bring out the inner child in you
Entertainment
- Esther’s Follies: What’s better than a comedy act? A comedy act with magic involved!
- Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar: Step inside and you’ll be singing along to your favorite tunes within minutes
- Alamo Drafthouse Ritz: No, you don’t come here to see a movie. You go to the Ritz for the sing-alongs and performances!
- The Parish: One of the best music venues in town with shows featuring local and artists and they also host well-known musicians
- Flamingo Cantina: Go here for live shows, dancing, drinks, and more!
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